product transformation, digital services, product organizations, Romain Delassus, digital innovation, robust services, sustainable products, organizational change, product management ## Introduction In the rapidly evolving landscape of digital transformation, the conventional wisdom surrounding product development is undergoing a significant shift. Romain Delassus, a seasoned observer and participant in the realm of digital change for over a decade, presents a compelling argument in his thought-provoking piece, "School of Product 2025." He asserts an essential truth: it is not merely the methodologies or approaches to product development that determine success, but rather the organizations behind these products. This article delves into Delassus's insights, exploring the crucial elements that characterize successful product organizations and the pitfalls that often lead to failure in creating robust and sustainable digital services. ## The Evolution of Product Development ### The Traditional Approach to Product Management For years, organizations have relied heavily on established frameworks and methodologies to guide their product development processes. Agile, Lean, and Design Thinking have been just a few of the popular approaches that promise improved efficiency and greater user satisfaction. However, as Delassus points out, these methodologies alone are insufficient to ensure the creation of truly impactful products. ### Why Methodologies Fall Short Despite the commitment and skills of top management, many organizations find themselves struggling to deliver meaningful digital services. The reality is that methodologies can only take an organization so far. If the underlying organizational structure, culture, and dynamics do not support product development, even the best strategies are likely to falter. Delassus emphasizes that organizations must transcend traditional product approaches to foster environments that genuinely nurture innovation and collaboration. ## Characteristics of Successful Product Organizations ### A Focus on Collaboration and Cross-Functionality Successful product organizations champion collaboration across various departments. Rather than siloing teams into distinct functions like marketing, engineering, and customer support, they emphasize cross-functional collaboration. This approach ensures that diverse perspectives are integrated into the product development process, leading to more innovative solutions that resonate with users. ### Clear Vision and Leadership Support At the heart of effective product organizations lies a clear vision articulated by strong leadership. Leaders must not only communicate the overarching goals but also inspire teams to take ownership of the product vision. Delassus highlights that when leadership genuinely believes in the mission and supports their teams, it creates an environment where innovation can flourish. ### User-Centric Mindset Another hallmark of successful product organizations is a steadfast commitment to understanding user needs. This user-centric approach involves continuous feedback loops, where teams actively seek and incorporate user insights into their product development cycles. Such organizations view user experience as a vital component of their success, driving them to create services that are not only functional but also delightful to use. ## The Consequences of Neglecting Organizational Structure ### The Risk of Fragmentation Organizations that cling to outdated product approaches often risk fragmentation within their teams. Without a cohesive strategy and a strong organizational framework, departments may operate in isolation, leading to misaligned goals and ineffective product outcomes. Delassus warns that this disconnection can stifle creativity and result in products that fail to meet market demands. ### The Innovation Stagnation Moreover, organizations that do not embrace a product-oriented mindset may find themselves in a state of innovation stagnation. In a world where digital transformation is constant, the inability to adapt and evolve can spell disaster. Delassus argues that embracing a product organization is not just a strategic advantage—it is a necessity for survival in the digital age. ## Building a Product Organization: Steps to Success ### Assessing Current Structures To transition from a traditional product approach to a successful product organization, leaders must first assess their current structures. This involves evaluating existing processes, identifying bottlenecks, and understanding team dynamics. A thorough assessment provides a roadmap for necessary changes and improvements. ### Fostering a Culture of Innovation Creating a culture that encourages experimentation and embraces failure as a learning opportunity is crucial. Organizations must promote psychological safety, where team members feel comfortable sharing ideas and taking risks. Delassus emphasizes that fostering such a culture not only enhances creativity but also leads to better product outcomes. ### Investing in Continuous Learning In the fast-paced digital landscape, continuous learning is essential. Organizations should invest in training and development programs that equip their teams with the latest skills and knowledge in product management and digital innovation. This commitment to learning ensures that teams remain agile and responsive to market changes. ## Conclusion In "School of Product 2025," Romain Delassus challenges conventional thinking around product development, urging organizations to focus on the structural and cultural elements that underpin successful digital services. As the landscape of product management continues to evolve, it is clear that methodologies alone will not suffice. Organizations must embrace a product-oriented mindset, prioritizing collaboration, leadership support, and a user-centric approach to thrive in an increasingly competitive digital world. By fostering robust product organizations, companies can create innovative and sustainable digital services that resonate with users, ultimately leading to long-term success. Source: https://blog.octo.com/school-of-product-2025-l'approche-produit-n'existe-pas-seules-comptent-les-organisations-produit.